World Equestrian Center: Marion Insider’s Guide
Derby Day at WEC
Celebrate the Kentucky Derby with World Equestrian Center’s fun-filled Derby Days!
The Kentucky Derby is the horse event of the year, bringing together highly trained jockeys and their powerful horses in a race that means the chance to win millions. It also provides the opportunity to flaunt your most elaborate hats and to gather together with a shared love and respect for equestrian sport.
As an international staple in horse show performances in the heart of Horse Country in Ocala/Marion County, Florida, WEC knows just how important this event is to equestrians and wants you to celebrate with them at their Derby Days event.
Event Details
When: May 1 - 3, 2026
Where: World Equestrian Center | 1750 NW 80th Ave., Ocala
The event will take place at multiple locations throughout World Equestrian Center, including opportunities to stay on site all weekend long.
What is Derby Days?
The Kentucky Derby Days at World Equestrian Center welcomes horse lovers and derby fanatics from all over the world to join together in a celebration of the traditional Run for the Roses event.
WEC’s event crafts a one-of-a-kind weekend with celebrations that go beyond the typical, with its car festival, hat party, which honors the horse racing event’s iconic fashion, and a featured live streaming of the Derby.
2026 Events
Oaks Party
When: May 1, 2026
Where: 2026 TBA
Tickets: Available through Stay Package | Additional details TBA
This high-fashion event opens the Derby Days weekend at World Equestrian Center with party fanfare and signature drinks inspired by the Kentucky Derby itself. Enjoy great company and decadent food, all while the Longines Kentucky Oaks race is streamed for your entertainment.
Festivals of Speed
When: May 2, 2026 | 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Where: Grand Outdoor Arena
Tickets: $25 for general admission (Children 12 and under are free)/ $195 for VIP section
The Festivals of Speed brings the horses – horsepower that is. Showcasing over 200 muscle cars, motorcycles, and luxury vehicles, this event turns WEC’s equestrian terrain into a stage for all things speed.
The Kentucky Derby Hat Party
When: May 2, 2026 | 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where: The Equestrian Hotel Terrace
Tickets: $300 per person
This event is 21+
Enjoy a live viewing of the Kentucky Derby on WEC jumbotrons. Join fellow fans in derby get-up and cheer on your favorite horse with a menu stacked with incredibly crafted food, including fried green tomatoes, jambalaya, blackened redfish, and delicious desserts. Your ticket also includes your choice of a complimentary derby hat or a commemorative Woodford Reserve bourbon. Note: these options are first-come, first-served, so get there early!
Additional Events at WEC | May 1-3, 2026
Seth Dukes at The Polo Pony
When: May 1 | 6 PM - 9:30 PM
Where: The Polo Pony
At World Equestrian Center's Polo Pony, grab a drink, some dinner, and enjoy the live vocals of a Florida native. Seth Dukes, originally from Gainesville, will be performing a mix of music.
Mark Z at the Yellow Pony
When: May 2 | 6 PM - 9:30 PM
Where: Thing Yellow Pony
Join the crowd at the Yellow Pony for live entertainment, performed by Mark Z. An industry favorite and long-time singer, Mark Z is guaranteed to put on a show you don't want to miss. He'll be covering music by Jackson Browne, Brooks and Dunn, Exile, and Jimmy Buffett.
Uptown Music at The Polo Pony
When: May 2 | 6 PM - 9:30 PM
Where: The Polo Pony
The Polo Pony hosts another live performance over the course of the weekend, this time featuring a duo of musicians. Muccigrosso and Zan Reid are slated to take the stage and dazzle audiences with their live vocals and talents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is parking like at Derby Day?
There is parking available onsite at World Equestrian Center, which offers a dozen different parking lot options for visitors.
What are some hotel options for this event?
Derby Day at WEC offers stay packages for those interested in attending the event. This deal allows you to stay at WEC and gain access to the Oaks Party, the Festivals of Speeds and the Hat Party, as well as Sunday brunch options and so much more. Please note that a two-night stay is required for the packages.
Additional nearby rooming options are available through Ocala/Marion County’s selection of award-winning hotels and inns. Click here for a comprehensive list of places to stay in Ocala/Marion County.
What do my tickets get me?
Tickets to the events are available and sold separately, unless accessed through World Equestrian Center’s stay package. Below are the exact details of each ticket available for the weekend of events:
- Festivals of Speed General Ticket: Entrance to the showcase.
- Festivals of Speed VIP Ticket: Entrance to the showcase and access to food service and open bar on the terrace of the Five Diamond Equestrian Hotel.
- The Kentucky Derby Hat Party Ticket: Food service (including small plates, appetizers, and main course), access to the bar with derby-inspired drinks, complimentary commemorative merch, and entrance to the Derby streaming.
- Stay Package: A two-night stay for one guest, and one ticket for the Oaks Party, Festivals of Speed, 2026 Kentucky Derby Hat Party. On Sunday, you’ll have the opportunity to attend brunch at The Equestrian Manor and receive a complimentary 2 pm, late checkout.
What should I wear?
Traditional Kentucky Derby garb is highly recommended, so pack your vibrant colors, playful dresses, and most importantly, a hat to match!
Plan your trip to Ocala/ Marion County and don’t miss out on this year’s Derby Day at World Equestrian Center.
